Happy 1st Birthday Felix!

You are daring. Far more daring that your brother which is really saying something. I hope you always keep that fearless attitude toward life and continue to try new things without hesitation. (but please stop trying to climb to the highest point in the room, thanks!)

You are sensitive – not only about what you eat (hopefully you’ll get to try dairy for the first time very soon!) but about every aspect of your life. If someone looks at you wrong you’ll burst into tears and I love this about you because it makes you who you are.

You are loving. You love to be loved and always show us you love us by cuddling or snuggling or kissing us. If any one of us finds ourselves lying on the ground you are always quick to come over and attack us with your slobbery kisses. Your love for your brother is probably one of my most favorite things. I really hope you two never lose that connection that you clearly have.

You are expressive. You have very few words (mama, dada and yeah are really the only ones you seem to somewhat grasp the meaning of) but you still say a lot. Your smile lights up a room and your “angry face” can stop us in our tracks. You have 6 teeth, you can crawl at warp speeds and we’ve seen you take a few steps when you thought no one was looking.

We faced a few challenges this year with you, first when I had to learn what to eat to make sure I didn’t make you sick and then there were many many times I wondered if I’d ever sleep again. It was in these moments that I realized you’ll never need me as much as you do right now and I cherished every minute. I cannot wait to watch you become more and more independent but will always miss those late night meetings we had together.

Just like with your brother I hope to watch you become who you’ve always been without any of us changing your path. It’s been clear from day one that you have your own unique personality and we really look forward to finding out who you are. I feel so lucky and proud to be your mom.

I can’t wait for our next trip around the sun together.
Xo
mom

Happy Birthday Lil Man!

To Henry on his birthday,

You are strong and you are brave. You know you who are and what you want to do.

You are fast. So fast that there I times your pregnant mama can’t even catch you!

You are sensitive and caring. You notice when mom, dad, grandma or anyone that is important to you is feeling down and reassure them that it will be OK.

You are funny. Your timing is impeccable even though you rarely realize it. Your laugh is infectious and can cheer anyone up in seconds.

You are creative. Your imagination runs wild while you play. I hope you never stop telling us your stories that never end.

You are smart. You remember, repeat and understand nearly everything. You can count and you know your ABCs but it’s more than that. You know the way home from Monica’s and you know if someone takes you the “wrong” way. To you “yesterday” and “last year” are interchangeable and I love that about you. You ask really interesting questions and challenge us to find the answer. You teach us at least as many things as we teach you.

You are curious. You always want to learn more about absolutely everything. You ask why the clock can tell us what time it is and how planes get into the sky. You ask where you were at my and dada’s wedding (complete with follow up questions accusing us of leaving you home alone that day). You’re always thinking.

You share your toys and appreciate your friends and family. You say thank you without being prompted because you’re truly grateful.

You are three and everything that comes with it. I know you’ll be the best big brother anyone could ever ask for and you’ll teach your little brother or sister everything you know. When you asked me what your new little brother or sister would be like I said I didn’t know but that I was sure they would be awesome just like you. We’re all extremely lucky to have you in our lives and await each new day and each new stage with excitement.

Happy Birthday Henry!

Dear Little Man,

Two years ago today I had the privilege of becoming your mother. My life changed forever from the first time I held you in my arms and looked into your eyes. I now look at the words adventure, peace, mine, and love differently than I once did.

You have taught me things I never knew I wanted or needed to learn, you have given my life and your dada’s life a new purpose. Thank you for teaching us what’s really important in life and for being with us on this exciting adventure. I look into your eyes and can see all the ideas running through your mind and am excited to see what adventures each new day brings us. I often wonder how I got so lucky.

Whoever said that having kids is like having your heart walk around outside of your body was definitely right.

I love you more than I can put into words and I promise to always protect you (especially from the "scary parts" :)). Thank you for being you.

xoxo,
Mama